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Main Boards => PowWow => Topic started by: 21cenlongbowhunter on January 05, 2008, 06:15:00 PM

Title: Heat Box Questions
Post by: 21cenlongbowhunter on January 05, 2008, 06:15:00 PM
I am wanting to build my first laminate bow
I have a good bandsaw and belt sander.
I have read mixed reviews on light bulb heat boxes
I am over budget before I have started I do not have $300 for heat tape. Will light bulb heat box work? Were can I get a thermostat cheep.
Should I build my heat box out of plywood or foam board?
Thanks
Title: Re: Heat Box Questions
Post by: kennym on January 05, 2008, 06:20:00 PM
Light bulb box will work.
Haven't used heat tape,bet its good.
Built my box from plywood,lined it with foilfaced foam.

Check this out for a thermo and other stuff.....

http://binghamprojects.com/
Title: Re: Heat Box Questions
Post by: horatio1226 on January 05, 2008, 07:48:00 PM
3 100 watt bulbs gets mine to about 120 degrees.
I use a dimmer switch and thermometer in the box
Title: Re: Heat Box Questions
Post by: Greg Szalewski on January 05, 2008, 10:38:00 PM
I agree with 3 bulb method. Mine has 4 with a t-stat and just aluminum foil. The heat box only accelerates the curring process.
Greg
Title: Re: Heat Box Questions
Post by: mshane on January 05, 2008, 10:50:00 PM
Yup, the heat box with bulbs works fine.  I have 4 100 watt bulbs with a dimmer switch and I can hold 180 degress nice and easy.....
Title: Re: Heat Box Questions
Post by: Pat B on January 05, 2008, 11:47:00 PM
I used Binghams instructions and thermostat(168deg) and with 4, 100w bulbs I reach max temp. I do have 1/2" foil backed foam board on all sides and top of the inside of my box.  To get less heat I unscrew 1 or more bulbs. One, 100w bulb will bring my box to just under 100deg. This is for drying wood.  Pat
Title: Re: Heat Box Questions
Post by: jwingman on January 06, 2008, 09:12:00 AM
I bought a thermostat for a hot water heater at Lowe's for $9.00. My box is plywood. I use 6 bulbs and a fan to circulate the air. Works good.
Title: Re: Heat Box Questions
Post by: ckanous on January 06, 2008, 09:18:00 AM
Do you  have to use a heat box? If not how long for cure time without one?
Title: Re: Heat Box Questions
Post by: Pat B on January 06, 2008, 02:28:00 PM
ckanous, It depends on the glue. Some glues will set at room temp but it usually takes longer for it to set. Urac(for wood on wood) is one that will set at room temp but I prefer to give it a few hours in my hot box. I don't make glass bows so I don't know about Smooth-on or any of the other glues.   Pat